Lovely Pigeon

Lovely Pigeon recently held a giveaway on Twitter, and I was lucky enough to win! I was so pleased because the online store is beautiful and full cute jewellery, stationery, homewares and prints. I wanted to share with you what I received.

I received two pairs of triangle earrings, four fabric badges, two prints and a lovely postcard. I love all the pretty pastel colours.

The patterns on these fabric patterns are perfect! I really like how they're based on isometric graph paper and they're sturdy too. They make a stylish accessory.

These earrings are quirky, but the simple colouring makes them chic and will go with so many of my outfits. I'm a big fan of graphics design and they're right up my street!

The limited edition prints of an antelope and an ermine are beautiful! The striking black lines and the blocks of colour make them very beautiful artwork. A great gift for any art lover like myself and really inspires me to get printing!

Thanks Lovely Pigeon! ♥

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Home, Orla Kiely Book Review

I'm a big fan of Orla Kiely because of her fashion design and the patterns she uses too. The patterns Orla Kiely uses often hark back to the past and remind us of the 1950s-1970s, but with a contemporary and fresh twist. I'm already the proud owner of the Pattern book and when I found this book I knew I had to have a read.

Her home book features lots of big and beautiful photographs of interiors and decor. The book begins with discussions on her patterns and style and then a chapter on her own home which is inspirational and definitely reflects Orla's designs! It is not just a book on herself though, as the bulk of the book are chapters on case studies of other modernist houses across the globe. Each photograph is accompanied with a caption of Orla commenting on the colours, shape, history or design process. Very insightful!

If you're a fan of retro furniture and design from the mid-century then I'd definitely recommend this book! I'm a big vintage fan and find that the book is a treat for my eyes. Once you've flicked through it a few times and have satisfied your need of looking at the photos, you start reading and find out many interesting facts about the houses that Orla Kiely has studied. The book is great if you're an Orla Kiely fan, however there are only a few chapters on her own work and it is more of a display of admiration for modernism. 

The book is quite a big one, so I wouldn't recommend carrying it around in your handbag, however the cover is beautifully covered in one of Orla Kiely's iconic patterns and would look beautiful on a coffee table or on your book shelf. Get this book if you're fascinated in retro design or interiors.

Are you a fan of Orla Kiely? What about retro furnishings and decor?

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It, Alexa Chung Review

I have recently read Alexa Chung's book, It which contains fun doodles, a collection of photographs, stories about her early life and discussions on her style and influences. Alexa is one of my favourite models because of her style and it's great to have more of an insight into her life.

Alexa writes in a charming and humorous way. I wouldn't really say the book is an autobiography, but more of a conversation and display of her thoughts. It's got a very down to earth and natural feel almost as if she is writing her own diary.

You will find ramblings on what got Alexa interested in fashion, the beginnings of her modelling career, makeup, fashion shows and her life. Although, the details are quite brief so I don't think this is the right book if you're looking for a 'how to guide' or autobiography as I finished the book in two short sittings. It must have only taken an hour or so to get through it.

Overall, the book isn't very lengthy, but enjoyable to read nonetheless. It's more a collection of witty comments and instagram styled photographs. The layout of the pages are very aesthetically pleasing and just nice to look out. If you're looking for an easy read and you're a big fan of fashion or Alexa, then I really recommend It. 

Anyone else read this? What were your thoughts?

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Golden Shoes

The other day I went for a winter walk, which I thought was a great idea to get some fresh air and to walk off all that chocolate I ate over Christmas, but it rained and it rained. All day. Never the less, I had a great day with my boyfriend and got to show off my new shoes.

I have wanted some brogues for ages as I really believe they're a timeless classic and last year my sister bought a pair like these and I immediately fell in love with them! Through my sister purchasing Grenson, I found my golden ones and I knew I had to have a  pair and bought them with my Christmas money.

They're so different and I think that's why I like them so much, I haven't seen many other metallic brogues around. The rubber wedge sole on them is quite thick and makes me about an inch taller. At least I know I'm not going to wear any holes in them anytime soon.

I must admit that I am a bit of a magpie and I'm attracted to anything that sparkles. These are so shiny you can see your reflection! At least my Granddad can't say I'm scruffy anymore (not that I ever was).

I'm really pleased that I got these shoes from Grenson! They were quite expensive for my pocket, but the quality of them is excellent and these will last me for a long time and you must always treat yourself to something luxurious once in a while.

Please let me know what you think. Are you a fan of them? Do you own a pair of brogues yourself?

I hope everyone's 2014 started off well.

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Erstwilder Beagle Brooch Review

Hello! I hope everyone had a brilliant Christmas.
One of my favourite presents was from my twin sister. She got me a beautiful beagle brooch designed by Erstwilder. Erstwilder jewellery is designed by Melbourne artist, Louisa Camille, so it's traveled a long way to see me. Her jewellery is full of fun and each character in the collection has its own personality. It brings sunshine to my day.

The layered resin brooch has such a cute and quirky appearance which I really love. It's so different and I have already been complemented on it. The beagle's name is Beatrice and she sports a pink and blue leopard print coat. Super stylish! It's such an appropriate brooch because we have a beagle named Honey so I'm no stranger to these cute creatures.

My only worry is that I'll break it because it is made from resin, so I have to be extra careful not to drop it, but I don't think I will. I'm always cautious and the brooch is of a very high quality and makes a fabulous gift. Erstwilder is also on Facebook and Pinterest.

If you're interested in Erstwilder jewellery, you can find all their stockists here.

What animal would you like to see as some jewellery?

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Tick Tock, My new Newgate Clock

So, what is a student essential? A number for the nearest takeaway? Well yes there is that, but one other thing that a student needs is an alarm clock!

When I saw this Newgate Cubic alarm clock from John Lewis, I fell in love with the retro design and bold red glossy exterior. I knew I could trust a Newgate clock because they're a British company that has been designing stylish clocks for many years now and have gained a great reputation.

I'll be starting university in just over a week, but I thought I'd give my new bedside table accessory a tryout before I start relying on it to get me to my early morning lectures. I'll let you know that it definitely woke me up. There is no snooze button either so there's no point trying to have a sneaky extra ten minutes in bed which personally I see as a good thing.

In an age of digital technology, I think it's great how Newgate are staying true to their classic style by sticking with analogue. If you're looking for a reliable timekeeper then I really recommend this. There are a lot of different styles and makes in John Lewis stores and online too.

Are you a fan of this fun vintage style? Let me know your opinions!

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Coming Up Roses Review

If you're a big fan of Cath Kidston like I am, you will know that it's the business' 20th birthday and to celebrate Cath has released the book, Coming Up Roses. Her new book describes all the trials and tribulations of setting up and running the business. I think it's amazing how it grew from very tiny acorns.

When I visited the York store on Tuesday, I saw the book and just had to buy it! I've had my eyes on it for a while. 

The book gives an insight into Cath's early days and how she didn't really have any training for running a business or designing, but it was more of an instinct. She describes the many hurdles she faced from starting in a little shop in Holland Park, London to expanding into an international and famous brand.

The book is full of beautiful photographs featuring the first store and where Cath Kidston found most of her inspiration as well as her wonderful floral patterns and prints. The book is a piece of art itself!

If you are an enterprising individual, a crafty artist or just a fan of the brand, then you'll love this book! I just couldn't put it down and finished it very quickly, but that's because of how interesting and inspiring it was.

Let's hope for another 20 years of modern vintage prints and lovely florals.

You can purchase the book from Cath Kidston's website here or why not search for a store near you?

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Paperchase Haul

Recently I made a big purchase of Paperchase stationery. I love Paperchase, their stationery is always stylish and I love using their notebooks and pencil cases (perfect for college). I'll be going to university in September so I've started to stock up on everything I'll need. Here are pictures of what I bought:

I bought the Lino Floral Triple Pencil Case (no longer on the Paperchase site), Duck Push Pins, Bird Canvas Mid Year Organiser, Helen Dardik Sticky Notes (no longer on the Paperchase site), Pink Flower Masking Tape, Red Dot Masking Tape (no longer on the Paperchase site) and the 5 Subject Project Notebook.

Oh and I have filled my pencil case with the Triangle Eraser, Diamond Gel Pen and just some plain gel pens too.

One of my favourite purchases is the Bird Canvas Mid Year Organiser. I've been looking for an organiser for ages! This one has inserts for July 2013 to December 2014 so it'll last me for a good 18 months. I could even decide to buy more inserts after December 2014 because it is refillable.

It is really sturdy and feels durable. I have no worries about throwing this into my bag when I'm on the go! The design is beautiful and I love the colours (I'm a fan of anything pink). It's floral, feminine and full of organiser inserts. There are inserts for your timetable, a full year planner, addresses and notes. The diary inserts are one week per two pages.

I love the illustrative birds!

As you can see from the inside, there are 5 slots to hold your cards and their is a pocket at the back to hold loose pieces of paper or whatever else you may find useful. The dividers say: information, agenda, planner, diary, addresses and notes. I can't wait to write all my important dates in it.

You can purchase the organiser here.

So what do you think? Are you a fan of Paperchase? What's your favourite item?

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Trains Zip Bag

 

Oh I have been so busy lately, you wouldn't believe it! That's why I haven't had chance to post anything new in a while until today. I've been getting ready for university as well as completing deadlines. I can't wait until Summer, I need a break.

Anyway, I was recently treated to a lovely Cath Kidston bag. It's in the quirky trains print (one of my favourite prints by Cath Kidston) and it's very spacious! I am able to carry lots of A4 books and anything I'd possibly need when going out to college or shopping.

It's got a zip fastening to keep everything inside safe and there is an inside pocket to keep your smaller bits and bobs safe! The shoulder strap is lovely and long, perfect to put over your shoulder.

If you're looking for a bag which will catch other peoples' attention and will gain a lot of interest then this is the bag you need! I think it's because of the train pattern, it's retro, cute and different.

 Find the bag in the Cath Kidston store or click here.

Are you a fan of Cath Kidston's designs? Let me know what you think. ♥

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Celine H2O's Giveaway

Recently I won a giveaway hosted by Chantal from Pony Chops. I was so surprised when I won because usually I never win. Hehe. I won a bracelet from CelineH20 . Celine's shop is beautiful! I love the one of a kind jewellery all handmade. If you love anything boho or vintage, then I definitely recommend that you go and have a look.

I'm always excited when I receive snail mail, it's just such a lovely feeling to see an envelope waiting for you (I don't know why, it just is). It arrived in a lovely little bag with a cute postcard from Celine! I currently collect postcards so this was great.

The beads on the bracelet are all unique and the charms really catch the light! It's the perfect fit and goes well with everything I wear so it was a great choice.

Do you own handmade pieces? I think they're full of so much more character.

Thank you to Chantal and Celine!